Headlines – Page 872 – Manipur News

Chaoba echoes central leaders: says good governance can remove AFSPA

IMPHAL, January 15: Removal of AFSPA from Manipur will no longer be an issue if all the 60 MLAs stand together and raise the demand, stated BJP state unit president. Addressing a press conference held at the party’s office at … Continue reading →

IMPHAL, January 15: Removal of AFSPA from Manipur will no longer be an issue if all the 60 MLAs stand together and raise the demand, stated BJP state unit president.

Addressing a press conference held at the party’s office at Nityaipat Chuthek, the former Union minister said if the legislatures seriously aspire to save anti-AFSPA activist Irom Sharmila by ending her 13-year old fast then they should demand the revocation of the disturbed area status from the entire districts of Manipur.

Remembering the introduction of the Act and expansion of areas under its ambit, Chaoba said it was initially imposed in Mao and Tamenglong areas in 1961, three years after the Act was passed by the Parliament. Later, during the tenure of RK Dorendro as chief minister the Act became applicable in all areas in the state, he added.

The Jeevan Reddy Commission in its report had contended that the AFSPA needs a review or repeal and even the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh had pledged to replace it with a more humane law during the handing over of Kangla, he added. But unfortunately the Act is still in place and the Army chief of India had declared that they do not support withdrawal of the Act from arm conflict areas like the north-east region or Jammu and Kashmir.

Chaoba claimed that his party has always stood against AFSPA and will demand its removal from the state. In Nagaland, the disturb areas status is more or less defunct due to the efforts of the state government there, he added. If the legislatures in Manipur show the determination to remove the disturb area tag it will be definitely possible, he stated. He said that it will take a mammoth effort from the legislatures to remove the Act imposed through the Parliament and save Sharmila. However, if there is good governance in the state then AFSPA will be removed automatically, he added.

State BJP leader M Bhorot said the party has always been clear about its stand against AFSPA and the state leaders have hold several rounds of discussion and submitted applications to Central leaders including Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj, he stated.

Search operations continuous

IMPHAL, January 15: District Police of Imphal East and West, this morning conducted separate search operations in four different areas of the state capital as part of the security measure taken up ahead of the Republic Day celebration. Imphal West … Continue reading →

Imphal West commandos along with personnel of the 4th IRB conducted a search operation at Pishum area from Pishum Ningom to Pishum Oinam Leirak under the supervision of S Ibomcha Dy SP(ops) 5.30 am today.

During the search operation, people between the age group of 18 to 50 years were called out from their respective house and verified.

13 individuals who failed to produce proper identity were detained by the police and handed over to the Singjamei police for further verification.

Later at around 7.30 am, the same police team conducted a surprise search operation at North AOC under Imphal Police Station.

During the search operation various ticket counters of interstate Buses and wingers were thoroughly checked by the police.

Passer-bys were also checked during the surprise operation.

On the other hand, Imphal East district police personnel conducted a search operation at Soibam Leikai area from Ananda Singh Academy Crossing upto Citizen Club from 5 am this morning.

People were asked to line up at the Citizen Club ground and verified during the operation.

Six persons who failed to provide proper verification were detained by the police and handed over to the concern Porompat Police station.

Later the same time, another team of the Imphal East police had also conducted a similar operation at Haokip Veng around 7,30 am, although no one was detained during the operation.

SK Thadou injured, cadre killed in ambush by rivals

JIRIBAM, January 15: In an ambush by the suspected rival faction at Leingangpokpi, the three men including chairman of the United Tribal Liberation Army (SK Thadou), a SoO signatory was injured and another cadre death. Meanwhile, the UTLA in a … Continue reading →

Meanwhile, the UTLA in a press release while condemning the attack has said that the attack killed two SK Thadou cadres and injured two others.

The incident took place at around 2 pm when SK Thadou was driving a Maruti car (AS 24 – 7633) towards Jiri Bazaar and he was attacked by the suspected rival UTLA Robert Singson with sophisticated weapons. There were six persons in the car.

One cadre named private Kailun alias George of Cachar Lalpani was dead on the spot while chairman SK Thadou sustained a bullet injury at his chest and one cadre name Jetlee injured at his hand. They were rushed to Jiribam Community Health Centre for treatment. After having given necessary treatment there, they were then referred to Silchar for better treatment.

On receiving the news of the incident, the Jiri police commando and 27 AR rushed to the spot and helped them to get medical treatment at Jiribam. One cadre who was coming in the car said that the UTLA Robert faction of around seven persons had ambushed them and they somehow managed to escape from the spot.

Meanwhile, the United Tribal Liberation Army has condemned the attack on the SK Thadou group at Leingangpokpi near Jiribam, by its rival faction.

Condemning the act, the UTLA in a press release has said that the attack killed two SK Thadou cadres and injured two others.

The release further said that the KNO/UTLA organization had no knowledge about the incident and that the organization is not involved in such activities, instead, expressed the feeling of pain for the bereaved family and for the injured cadres.

The organization firmly stands for peace and harmony in the region obtaining the SoO ground rules, as it is solely the stronghold of the KNO/UTLA.

The organization performed customary peace talk (MoU) with them last year and it further urges that such unwanted activities should not happen again in the area.

Brutal murder of yet another young woman

IMPHAL, January 15: Despite the uproar from all sections of the society on crime against women, a 24-year old married woman was found dead with her throat slit open and with cut marks on her abdomen today. The woman identified … Continue reading →

The woman identified as Sultana Begum, daughter of Noor Ahamad of Irong Mamang at present staying at Hatta Golapati Maning Leikai had gone missing since January 6.The body was recovered from the Dampi Forest hill range, Wangtha lambi under Kumbi Police late in the evening. The partly decomposed body was deposited at the RIMS morgue for post mortem and a full inquest of the area was conducted in the presence of SDO Moirang.

According to reliable source, locals who had gone to collect firewood had recovered the body of the woman around 11.30am today.

The locals informed the nearby villagers, who in turn informed the police about the presence of the dead body.

Police suspected the use of a sharp weapon as a murder weapon as her throat was found slit open.

Police said that a big lady-bag black and white in colour was found near the body. While searching the bag, a receipt dated December 17, 2012 of the Esent Diagnostic Private Limited with a mobile phone number scribbled on the back was found.

When a call was made to the mobile number, the speaker at the other end identified himself as a relative of the woman and had confirmed that Sultana had been missing since January 6. He had also said that a case was filed with the Porompat Police regarding her missing some days back.

Meanwhile, another source said, the woman had been staying at her parental home following her divorce.

Janata Dal United (JDU) launches cell for the differently abled persons

IMPHAL, January 15: The Janata Dal United state unit president M Tombi today launched a cell for the differently-abled persons at the premise of its office today. In the press meet convened at the JDU office the party president said … Continue reading →

IMPHAL, January 15: The Janata Dal United state unit president M Tombi today launched a cell for the differently-abled persons at the premise of its office today.

In the press meet convened at the JDU office the party president said that the cell was opened under the theme of “The Role of Youth in This Present Society.”

Md Abdul Hakim has been appointed as the advisor of the differently able person cell.

He further informed people of Manipur particularly from the remote areas to come to the JDU office for the enrolment.

It will be free of cost for the disabled persons. And if the persons do not have conveyance to reach the JDU office then it will be provided by the party, he said.

The enrolment can be done from 10 am to 5 pm at the office, he added.

In the sideline the president informed that JDU is making preparation for the upcoming 16th Lok Sabha election.

They are looking for common candidates from other political parties except the Congress and BJP.

Tombi said that if the common candidate proposal does not materialized then the JDU will fight on its own by fielding its candidate at the inner constituency.

He observed that BJP in the state is on the saying mood and Congress is in the listening mood, but they are abandoning the real issues of the people of Manipur.

Public congregation held ahead of verdict on Dr Kishan murder case

IMPHAL, January 15: A public congregation was convened at Mapari Ninghingkol, Uripok Machin today to discuss the development in the wake of the announcement that the judgement of the triple murder case of Dr Kishan, Token and Rajen will be … Continue reading →

The case is being taken up by the CBI against self-styled Lt Colonel of NSCN-IM Hopson Ningsen at Patiala House Court in New Delhi.

Speaking at the gathering convenor of the JAC Against the Brutal Killing of Dr Kishan, Token and Rajen, Y Kapur said on February 17, 2009 the NSCN (IM) have killed the then SDO of Kasom Khullen, Dr Thingnam Kishan and two of his staff Yumnam Token and Aribam Rajen after their abduction from Ukhrul. Their dead bodies were recovered from Senapati district after the murder by cadres of NSCN (IM), he added.

He further said after nearly five years of lying in the cold, the Patiala House Court, New Delhi is set to deliver its verdict.

The brutality of the killing had shocked the public who came on spontaneously and took part in series of agitation, he said adding that the JAC was formed to put pressure on the government..

The case was handed over to CBI on January 31, 2010 and a case (R.C. 223 (S)/ 2009 IPS) was registered against Hopeson Ningshen in the killing of the said individuals. The NSCN (IM) further labeled Hopson Nigshen a black sheep of the outfit after initially denying his relation with the party.

The verdict of court is awaited with eagerness by the people of the state and they want him to get maximum punishment, he said. The gathering was attended by various civil society organizations and intellectuals.

Girl killed, 14 injured in Ukhrul road mishap

IMPHAL January 15: A 17-year-old girl was killed while 14 others were injured, six of them seriously, in a road mishap involving a Shaktiman Tata at Asang Khullen under Kasom Khullen Police station, Ukhrul district. The six critically injured are, … Continue reading →

The six critically injured are, at presently, undergoing treatment at the JNIMS.

According to family members present at the hospital, the Shaktiman Tata bearing regd number MN 03T 0696 carrying around 20 persons fell into a 50 meter deep gorge about a km away from Asang Khullen while going up to Leinang Ching.

A 17 year old firl identified as MC Naomichon of Ashang Khullen died on her way to the hospital and her dead body was taken back home by family members, said a family member of one of the injured at the hospital. He continued that among the 14 others injured, six are in serious conditions with multiples injuries all over their bodies.

The seriously injured persons are identified as Denstri, 21 daughter of N Nalangzao; Leiminon, 23 wife of Mathotmi; Grace kakhui, 32 wife of Thuisen; Nungmila, 18 daughter of M C Ahao; VS Chihangsing, 17, son of John Boss and Naoroipam Jajo, 23 son of Shimeri Jajo all from Asang Khullen.

He continue that the local MLA of Punyar AC, Victor Keishing and the ADC member Thotaishang of Kasom Khullen has provided monetary help to the injured persons.

FREINDS drive on sale of spurious medicines

IMPHAL, January 14: Members of the Federation of Regional Indigenous Societies (FRIENDS) and Ayurvedic Doctors Association of Manipur today picked up non-locals from Khuyathong, Hatta, Sangakpham bazaar for selling unknown and unrefined Ayurvedic medicines using loud speakers along the roadsides. … Continue reading →

Speaking at a press conference, FREINDS president, Sapamcha Jadumani said that members of the two organisations had initiated a drive against some scrupulous individuals who have been selling unknown and unrefined ayurvedic medicines.

The drive was initiated on January 11, 2014 following complaints of allergy and other maladies from persons who had used such medicines, he said.

He also said that the volunteers first asked those found indulging in such selling of ayurvedic medicines and asked for their documents enabling them to sell the medicines, however, the volunteers found several vendors who could not produce their valid documents.

He said the Central Council of Indian Medicine had already strictly ban selling of medicine on the road side without proper documents and permissions from the concerned authorities but in the state there are numerously vendors who sell such kind of unknown medicines without any registration and name of the medicine.

He appealed to the public not to buy such kind of medicines from them.

Dr N Paona member of Ayurvedic Doctors Association of Manipur said that the rounded up non- locals have no knowledge about ayurvedic medicines, and added that when the medicines were closely inspected, fungus was seen in many of the medicines.

Moreh celebrates Pongal festival

MOREH, January 14: The Pongal festival of the Tamil community was today celebrated at Moreh organised and sponsored by the Sun Rise Youth Club Moreh. The celebration was attended by PHED minister I Hemochandra Singh as the chief guest, D … Continue reading →

MOREH, January 14: The Pongal festival of the Tamil community was today celebrated at Moreh organised and sponsored by the Sun Rise Youth Club Moreh.

The celebration was attended by PHED minister I Hemochandra Singh as the chief guest, D Korungthang MLA of 42 Tamenglong assembly constituency as president, Lhukhosei Zou chairman of ADC Chandel as chief host, Commerce and Industry minister Govindas Konthoujal, secretary to chief minister and director YAS N Ashok Kumar, Brigadier Rajeev Malkonia commandant of 9 AR Pallel, Anadi Atreya commanding officer of 9 AR Moreh, Parliamentary secretary Victor Keishing, MLA Y Surchandra Singh, MLA Yamthang Haokip, MLA Fazur Rahim, Tamenglong DC W Arthur, Churchandpur DC Jacintha Lazarus, SP Ukhrul Kabib as special guests respectively.

Moreh ADC Robert Kshetrimayum, Moreh SDPO H Balaram Singh, Hill Tribe Council president Jamang Haokip, MCM president M Thoiba Singh, ACODOM president I Ibobi Singh, MMC president Md Salim Khan attended as the guests of honour.

The secretary of the border trade chamber of commerce, Tamu Aye Ko and its ten members also attended the Pongal festival.

As the chief guest, I Hemochandra Singh observed that the Pongal festival would not be a festival of only the Tamils, it is the festival of Manipur as the festival is being celebrated by all communities in the border town.

The interesting part of the festival is that the various cultural items and dances such as Meitei, Kuki, Muslim and Nepali have attracted the attention of the people, the minister continued.

The minister wished that to let the Pongal festival bring social harmony, peace and prosperity in the state, adding that when the Look East Policy is operational in the state, the maintenance of social harmony and peace in the border town is very much necessary.

The president of the function MLA D Korungthang mentioned that Chandel district is a very lucky district as government of India and Manipur have provided two gifts for the district.

He further said that he has been working for the people of district and added that he will be working for them in the time to come. He also mentioned that the people of the district are extending support to the government schemes which are implementing in the district from time to time.

Prizes were also distributed of the sport item held in connection with the festival such as Pongal cricket tournament, racing competition, Chaphu Thugaibi etc. The media correspondent of the town were also honoured by presenting a memento.

Consultation on UN Law of Armed Conflict and AFSPA

CHANDEL, January 14: A one day consultation on United Nations’ Law of Armed Conflict and Armed Forces (Special Power) Act, 1958 was held today at Chamdil Khubul. The program was jointly organized by the Peoples Development Organization Chandel District, Partner … Continue reading →

CHANDEL, January 14: A one day consultation on United Nations’ Law of Armed Conflict and Armed Forces (Special Power) Act, 1958 was held today at Chamdil Khubul.

The program was jointly organized by the Peoples Development Organization Chandel District, Partner Villages Development Forum Chandel District, Chakpi River Protection & Development Society and North East Dialogue Forum.

Advocat W Basanta; secretary, Women Action for Development, Sobita Mangshatabam; secretary, United NGOs Mission Manipur, U Nabakishore and advocate L Savananda acted as the resource persons.

Convener North East Dialogue Forum Chandel district Chapter Ps Ngamnung, in his keynote address called for urgent repealing of the AFSPA, 1958 enacted by the Indian Parliament on September 11, 1958.

The convener strongly urged the Indian state and political armed opposition organizations to respect and implement the United Nations’ Law of Armed Conflict/War of International Humanitarian Law.

He also urged the armed state and non-state parties engaging in the armed conflict to stop committing crimes such as genocide, crime against humanity and war crime.

Sobita Mangshatabam, secretary WAD while speaking on the topic of ‘Rape as an instrument of war’, said “Rape is use as an instrument of war in many parts of the world since long time ago. Even in India it is used by Armed forces under the shadow of Armed Forces Special Protection Act, 1958.”

She said ‘rape should not be taken lightly.’

Unfortunately, in some rural areas crime against women such as rape cases are settled according to the customary laws by imposing fines and such cases were seldom reported to the police and the culprits remain free.

She further said that the people must fight collectively irrespective of caste, creed and tribe to deliver justice to such victims and save Manipur.

Advocate W Basanta said both state and non-state actors should respect the international Humanitarian Laws and follow the common Articles of the UN Geneva Convention, 1949.

If the said articles are not followed by the state actors or even the outlawed organisations (UGs), they can be tried in the international court of law for violating human rights.

During the program attended by NGOs, leaders of the civil organisations, churches and intellectuals including women, discussion and interaction were also held.

Foundation stone for twin statues laid

IMPHAL, January 13: The 8th death anniversary of Chingsubam Akaba was held today at the Chingsubam Akaba Memorial Complex, Wakha Leima Ching where his mortal remains were buried eight years ago. Speaking as the chief guest of the function, titular … Continue reading →

IMPHAL, January 13: The 8th death anniversary of Chingsubam Akaba was held today at the Chingsubam Akaba Memorial Complex, Wakha Leima Ching where his mortal remains were buried eight years ago.

Speaking as the chief guest of the function, titular king of Manipur Leisemba Sanajaoba said that the foundation stone for the statues of R Suisa and Ch Akaba will be the first step towards unity of hills and valley of Manipur.

Recounting his experience of meeting NSCN (IM) leader Muivah in 2012, the titular king said that he had been wanting to meet Muivah for a long time, which compelled him to leave his home without even informing his family members.

He said only after meeting Muivah, he has been able to understand the NSCN (IM) leader; and further added that there is a huge difference between the general perception and the true identity of the NSCN (IM) leader.

He further appealed to the people of both the hills and valley to establish proper communication between themselves.

The titular king further said that he will donate Rs 50 thousand for the construction of the statues from the donation he recieved from Sharmila.

Special invitee to the function, Artex Shimray, president of the Tangkhul Naga Long said the late Akaba as “we remember not only understood the importance of a robust relationship of the peoples in the hills and the plains but nurtured the same.”

“He was keenly promoting art and culture not only in the plains but in the hills too, as he saw great value in retaining and maintaining these cultures that defines the land, territory and identity of a people.”

“As I read the life and works of Ojha Akaba, a copy of which was handed over to me when the organizers and friends from the Meetei National Front (MNF) had come to the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) office in Ukhrul, to invite us to participate in the 8th Death Anniversary of Ojha Akaba, I am impressed by his work and commitment to revive the cultural tradition that used to be, before Hinduism and his work reflects his understanding that the people in the hills and valley are different yet must walk hand in hand and the celebration of Mera Hou Chongba will bear testimony to this.”

His vision was lived through the mission he undertook not as a revivalist but also as someone who placed the welfare of the people is above individual`s interest and work tirelessly to improve the lives of the people.

“We rarely find men like him these days!”

Taking a cue from what he had done, today it is left to us all to decide the kind of future we want to share whether we continue to live in doubts and fear – suspicious of each other or whether we collectively fight these nemesis and chart out our future as peoples who can never be separated and must walk together in good times and bad times and work together as peace maker and live harmoniously as good neighbours.

Another special invitee Mathankhui Zimik, vice-president of Tangkhul Naga Wungnalong said that the people of Manipur should understand the two leaders and should follow their footsteps and added that it will be meaningless to erect the twin statue if the people were unable to follow in thier footsteps.

Namoijam Tomba, executive editor of bilingual evening daily which was founded by late Chingsubam Akaba, said today is the day which had opened a chapter of history. He further added that today is day which has recollected past history be sitting together between hill and valley people.

As a guest of honour of the function, ex minister R V Mingthing also mentioned that there is similarity between R Suisa and Akaba. Both of them were simple living persons like that of a farmer. R Suisa had worked for the unity of hill and valley people as Akaba had done. He further said that Suisa was an MP but he was different from the present MPs. Mingthing further mentioned that Suisa lived in all the at the house of Soyam Amu of Khurai Lamlong.

When Suisa was dead, his mortal remain was kept half an hour at home of Soyam Amu and then burial was made at Hongman village in Senapati district by facing his face towards valley as it was his cherish desire. R Suisa’s birth place is Somtal in Ukhrul. R Mingthing further narrated what Suisa had said, valley brethren will one day search the elder brother of the hill.

Digitized Imagi Ningthem to be screened at Pune Int`l Film Festival

NEW DELHI, January 13 (Manipur Information Centre): International acclaimed Manipuri film- IMAGI NINGTHEM ( My Son, MY Precious) directed by Aribam Syam Sharma are among seven Indian films selected under the section- Gems From NFAI of the ongoing 12th Pune International Film Festival 2014. The film-Imagi Ningthem has been digitized by the National Film Archives of India. The Archive has digitized 566 films and restored 329 so far under the National Film heritage Mission. Other films to be screened under the section are Bhavni Bhavai( Gujarati) directed by Ketan Mehta, Samskara (Kannada) by Pattabhirami Reddy, Daasi (Telegu) by B. Narsinga Rao, Agraharathal Kazhuthai (Tamil) John Abraham, Halodhia Choraye Baodhan Khai (Assamese) by Jahnu Barua and Esthappan (Malayalam) by G. Aravindran.

Imagi Ningthem will be screened in Blu-ray version in the ongoing 12th Pune International Film Festival in the section “Gems from NFAI” on 14th January at 9.00 am at City Pride, Screen 5, Abhiruchi, Pune.

The 110-minute long Imagi Ningthem tells the story of an orphan. A lady teacher, new to the village is asked by an old man to tutor his grandson who is sickly all the time. The teacher becomes curious to know more about the old man and the boy. She finds out from a colleague that the boy’s mother had been seduced by a man and died in child birth. It turns out that the father is the husband of her cousin who is promptly apprised of the fact. Her cousin is attracted to the unfortunate boy and adopts him while her husband is absent. Subsequently the husband returns home and objects to the boy being adopted for he does not know it is his own son. The grandfather wants to take the boy back but the step mother does not let him and ultimately keeps the boy.

Master Leikhendra, Ingudam Mangi, Rashi, Bhubhaneswari, Indra Kumar are main cast of the film scripted by M. K. Binodini and cinematographed by K. Ibohal Sharma. Khundrapam Joykumar scored the music. Imagi Ningthem brought Aribam Syam Sharma international recognition when the movie received theGolden Montgolfiere in the Nantes International Film Festival in 1982. Imagi Ningthem was the first Indian Film to bag the prestigious award in the Nantes International Film Festival.

`Arrested KCP (Lamphel) cadres from Guwahati innocent`

IMPHAL, January 13: Asserting that there were innocent individuals from Khangabok, Thoubal among the five arrested on January 5 from Guwahati as cadres of the KCP (Lamphel), locals staged a sit in protest at the Khangabok Lamlong keithel. The locals … Continue reading →

The locals have also demanded the unconditional release of all individuals amongst the five from Khangabok.

General secretary of the Social Welfare Club, Khangabok Kh Nabachandra said that M Rupo, 39, son of (L) Nganba of Khangabok Part III Lamlong Makha; M Mahen, 42, son of Ibomcha of Khangabok Part III Makha leikai and N Ibo, 37 son of Ibochan who were claimed to be arrested along with KCP (Lamphel) publicity secretary from Assam are all innocent.

He also claimed that N Nabachandra, 47 son of (L) Kesho of Khangabok Makha Leikai who was arrested as the publicity secretary of KCP (Lamphel) is also innocent.

He has been living at Guwahati since some ten years ago, while both Rupo and Ibo had gone to Guwahati on January 2 to but A-Star cars, the local club general secretary claimed.

Mahen had gon in December last to buy a Tata Magic, he said before adding that all three had been staying with Nabachandra in looking for the vehicles.

The protestors further lamented the failure of the concerned outfit to clarify on the issue, and further appealed to clarify at the earliest.

`Presence of migratory birds indicator of good wetland`

BISHNUPUR, January 13: The two-day long Loktak Waterbird Census Motivation Camp was opened today at the Toubul High School. The camp is being jointly organised by the department of Forest Wild Life Wing, government of Manipur, Toubul Youth Development Association, … Continue reading →

BISHNUPUR, January 13: The two-day long Loktak Waterbird Census Motivation Camp was opened today at the Toubul High School.

The camp is being jointly organised by the department of Forest Wild Life Wing, government of Manipur, Toubul Youth Development Association, TYDA, Toubul; Centre for Conservation of Naure and Cultivation Sciences, CCNCS.

The inaugural function was attended by Bishnupur DFO L Lukhoi as the chief guest, L Joykumar, dy conservator, Sanctuary and parks Keibul Lamjao and Dr Kh Shamungou, wild life activist and member, Special Deer Group and Indian Union for Conservation of Nation and K Jugeshwar Wild Life activist as chief guest, president and guests of honour respectively.

Speaking at the function attended by wild life activists and representatives of voluntary organisations, Dr Shamungou said people are bewildered on hearing that a census of the migratory birds will be conducted and how the bird count could be exact.

He said the count could not be exact due to lack of technology, however, the varieties of migratory birds that have landed in the state could be ascertained.

The stopping over by large varieties of migratory birds is an indicator of a good wetland, and as such the water bird census to be conducted at Loktak Lake will also help in ascertaining the condition of the lake, he observed.

The opening day of the camp was also attended by wild life activists RK Birjit, Dr Kh Shamungou, Hitler amongst others as resource persons.

The opening day of the camp also had discussions on how to conduct the census and its advantages. Films on bio-diversity and birds were also shown during the first day.

It may be mentioned that the bird census will be conducted on January 18 at 50 counting points at Loktak. The census will be participated by around 120 volunteers and other officials.

Hangbung celebrates 2013 achievements

KANGPOKPI, January 13: “They were well behaved with good disciplines, they respect their chief and the village authority, church leaders, village elders, love one another and live peacefully” said Haokholal Hangshing, chairman ADC Sadar Hills referring to the locals of … Continue reading →

The ADC chairman was speaking on the felicitation cum thanksgiving ceremony of the achievements of Hengbung village in North East level, state-level, district level and area level in various competitions during 2013.

The ADC Sadar Hills chairman attended the function as the chief guest; Lenkhomang Chongloi, member ADC Sadar Hills as guest of honour while Haokholet Kipgen, chief of Hengbung and Ex-MLA attended the function as chief host.

While speaking at the function, Haokholal Hangshing continued that all the success and achievements being felicitated today are from the ‘almighty God’; and added that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and success.

Encouraging the villagers of Hengbung, Haokholet Kipgen urged both the young and the old, man and woman, boys and girls to stand for unity and peace for greater and higher achievements as well as success.

The success and achievements of Hengbung village during 2013 felicitated today were the state-level Miss Kut 2013 title; Best KVK Award of North East Region awarded to the KVK Hengbung; Champion of District Level Friendship Cup 2013 by HYC; Runner`s Up in 1st Gorkha Tournament 2013 by Hengbung-1 Youth Club; Champion of Mayangkhang Area Gospel Olympics 2013 by Hengbung BYF and First Position in NAKSA Idol 2013 by Seiminthang Chongloi.

Lenkhomang Chongloi, member ADC Sadar Hills expressed his profound gratitude to the Hengbung Village Authority as well as the villagers.

In his exhortation speech, Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills president Seikhomang Khongsai lauded the combined struggles and efforts of Hengbung V/A and its villagers and the well maintained discipline as well.

Roingam Thanga, member ADC Sadar Hills lauded the success and achievements and emphasize the importance of Unity.

The felicitation and thanksgiving ceremony was also attended by Lunthang Haokip, EM ADC Sadar Hills; Seisat Kipgen, EM, ADC Sadar Hills; Roingam Thanga, Member, ADC Sadar Hills; Sahib Singh, Zonal Director NYK, Imphal; S.Gourakishore, District Youth Coordinator, NYK, Kangpokpi; Kipgen Khanglai Kiloikhom president; chiefs of Songtun, Leikot; Kipgen Bulpipa(Origin of Kipgen) and various church leaders and civil bodies.

Presentation of traditional shawls and mementos as well as various cultural dance marked the ceremony.

Digitized Imagi Ningthem to be screened at Pune Intl Film Festival

Anal Phetha Ni Alum held in Chandel

CHANDEL, Jan 12: The Anal Phetha Ni Alum 2014, a festival honouring the legendary heroes of the Anal Tribe, at Anal on Christian Institute Lambung, Chandel began with an anthem, ‘Napam Nadu Kankhupam” presented by Panchai Women Fellowship which was … Continue reading →

The festival was organized by Anal Naga Tangpi (ANTA) on the theme, ‘ Commitment and Responsibilities with the MLA of 41 A/C Chandel St Nunghlung Victor and CO of 8th MR Leikun TK Anal IPS as the chief guest and guest of honour.

President of ANTA Kohring Victor while addressing the gathering honored the dignitaries of the function with a souvenir each.

Dissatisfied with the number of participants, St Nunghlung Victor while speaking on the occasion as the Chief Guest stated that the festival be well organized with himself in the committee for hosting such festival in the years to come and ensured maximum participation of all villages including the chiefs, pastors and deacons of all churches.

He suggested that necessary arrangements including food be arranged for participants coming from far off places. The festival should provide a platform for conducting events that are riched in the traditions and customs of the Anal people and patriotic song competition.

CO of 8th MR TK Anal IPS while speaking as the Guest of Honour appeal to the Youths to fear God. He said that the youths should bring honour and fame to the society they belong by their hard work and determination.

Important speakers of the day included Ps Bemung who spoke on the significance of the festival. KL Hringkham MCS and Anal Sinnu Ruwl St Ruth also spoke on the occasion.

The function was attended by Chairman of Area Chief Association, Pastors, distinguished guest and invitees.

MSME units a boon for Manipur`s rural folk

IMPHAL, January 12 (ANI): The Imphal Handloom Work shed cum rural showroom is one among several small scale enterprises in Manipur that provides training and employment to rural artisans. The group, which is owned by M Jibonmala Devi, at present … Continue reading →

IMPHAL, January 12 (ANI): The Imphal Handloom Work shed cum rural showroom is one among several small scale enterprises in Manipur that provides training and employment to rural artisans.

The group, which is owned by M Jibonmala Devi, at present trains around 40 artisans in making handloom and handicraft products.

The final products are displayed in the showroom.

The group has come as a boon for the locals, especially the women folk and the youth, who are able to supplement their family income by utilizing the leisure time.

They are happy as they manage to earn around Rs.7000-8000 per month.

“There are so many youngsters who do not have work so instead of wasting time and doing nothing they should learn such handicrafts or handloom. So I called them all to train here. I want them to learn so that they can do something in the future and they can earn for their livelihood,” Devi said.

Borni Devi, an artisan, said: “This is very good, especially for the youngsters from this village. Those who do not have work should take up such kind of work so that they also get employment, and at the same time development will also take place in Manipur.”

The government has been regularly conducting skill and entrepreneurship development programmes to empower the rural population and encourage them to take up self-employment ventures.

There has been a significant development in the micro, small and medium enterprise sector in Manipur.

The National Small Industries Corporation has been organizing several expos in the state to provide a platform to such groups to showcase their products. Under the newly launched Northeast Textile Promotion Scheme, the department also intends to provide power looms at a 70 per cent subsidy.

The groups are also provided support for getting market exposure and participating in various exhibitions outside the state.

A total of Rs.14 crores has also been allotted for the development of handloom and handicraft sector during the remaining three years of the 12th 5 year plan.

O. Nabakeshwore Singh, Principal Secretary, Commerce and Industries, Government of Manipur, said: “People are looking for employment. They want to lead a peaceful life, they want employment and by taking up this cluster whether in handloom or food processing or handicraft people are gainfully engaged in some kind of productive activities. So it has a good effect on the social manage in the state and gradually our state is now moving towards the peaceful position and I am sure with the development of the entrepreneurship among younger people. We will have a peaceful and development in the near future.”

The growth of several MSME units in the state has helped in boosting the rural economy. Moreover, taking up such initiatives helps the youth to channelize their energy towards constructive work.

AAP launches Lamka branch office

CCPUR, January 12: The Aam Admi Party today launched its branch office at Lamka. The function was held at Vengnual, New Lamka Peace Avenue, Agape Street which will also serve as the party headquarter. Rev V Thankhangin DI EBC opened … Continue reading →

CCPUR, January 12: The Aam Admi Party today launched its branch office at Lamka.

The function was held at Vengnual, New Lamka Peace Avenue, Agape Street which will also serve as the party headquarter.

Rev V Thankhangin DI EBC opened the program.

Speaking to media persons, the chief convenor of new AAP branch, PK Mung said that enrolment of members through the net has already started and more than 10000 members have already signed up at Chandel and CCpur district.

The party’s main activity in the state will be to fight corruption and end VIP culture, he said while adding that the AAP branch will also be joining the national-level Anti-corruption Forum at Delhi.

He said that the party is also open to all irrespective of community, tribe, groups, etc.

During the occasion, advisor Thangkhangin Ngaithe who has a doctorate from JNU, New Delhi said that the party should move forward in such a manner that others are unable to create any block for the party.

He said the party should not allow vested or communal/tribe based politic to enter the AAP or else we are doomed from the onset.

The adviser further challenged the leadership to work at the grass-root level out of their home comfort.

He said the people’s vision must encompassed more than a hundred year ahead, which in many case don’t even cover their own lifetime.

“In politics we must be ready to face any repercussion that might come along the way, and should have the attitude to take the anti-corruption fight to the end”, he continued.

He said during the times of Rishang Keishing under Art 371 clause ‘A’, the non-Naga tribes were divided, and continued that it gives special advantage/privilege to the Nagas.

Leaders of the party said that the party has as of now no plan to contest election in CCpur or Manipur.

Forced recruitment of teens alleged

IMPHAL, January 11: Two students of Biramangol College, Sawombung went missing in the middle of a study tour to Moreh on Friday evening and are believed to have been taken into the custody of a banned militant group. The two … Continue reading →

The two missing students have been identified as Seram Romson, 17, son of Seram Loken of Pungdongbam Mayai Leikai and Sukham Bidyashore, 19, son of Shyam Singh of Nongren Mayai Leikai.

According to the family members of the missing teenagers, about 32 students belonging to the zoological department of the college had gone on the trip to Moreh. After getting information of the reported involuntary detention, the family members have reportedly rushed to Moreh.

Meanwhile, Lamlai police picked up two persons on suspicion of collusion in a conspiracy with the militant group to whisk away the two students. Laishram Meiteingamba, son of Commander, and Irom Yaiphaba, son of late Irom Marjit, both hailing from Pungdombam Makha Leikai were taken into police custody but Yaiphaba was released summarily after verifications that he was not involved.

Sources said three students had crossed the international border to Namthalong with the purpose of meeting an ‘ahan’ (elder) at the Myanmer town. At around 4 pm, the teachers guiding the tour got the information about the disappearance of two of them from the other student.

Their companion told that Romson and Bidiyashore were waiting for the ahan to collect money at Namthalong. The elder told them that they have to travel to another place some distance away as the money cannot be handed over there. He had stayed put at Namthalong while his two college mates accompanied the suspected rebel leader, said sources.

The family members of the two students were informed about the disappearance of their wards. It was at this moment that the involvement of Meiteingamba came into consideration. The family members of Romson remembered Meiteingamba taking Ronsom’s contact number from him father. During his talk with Romson on the phone, Meiteingamba requested him to collect some money from an older person, who was later identified from Meiteingamba’s confession to the locals as Yaima, alias Tayai, a leader of KCP from the same neighborhood.

Earlier, a massive search was conducted in the wee hours today and Meiteingamba was caught from the house of Laishram Kanhai Singh, of Itam Nungoi Litan Makhong along with Yaiphaba.

When questioned about the story behind the screen, his involvement in the disappearance of the two students was confirmed. At around 7 am the police and 30 AR personnel came to Nongoi and Meiteingamba was handed over to the security personnel. Romson was asked to meet Yaima who is presently staying at Myanmar but is from Pungdongbam, said police source.

In this regard the secretary of the governing body of Brimangol College said that the excursion team has not returned from Moreh and appealed to all the students’ organisations of Manipur, and from Moreh in particular, for help.